About this role
Location: Visalia 12310 Avenue 368 | Visalia | CA | 93291
Hourly Rate: $28.62 (Overtime and weekends may be required)
Shift: 2nd Shift 2 pm - 10:30 pm | Shift Differential $0.40 hour
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Job Summary
The Oil Recovery Operator works under the direction of the Supervisor and Group Leader and is responsible for the safe, efficient, and sanitary operation of separator systems designed to recover citrus oils during the fresh fruit production process. This position is responsible for maximizing separator efficiency, monitoring process performance, maintaining equipment cleanliness, and supporting food safety and quality standards.
The Oil Recovery Operator may be required to work any shift and cross-train in other operational areas as needed. In the absence of this position, the Group Leader or other qualified operators may perform these duties.
Primary Responsibilities
- Food Safety is the responsibility of all Ventura Coastal manufacturing employees. All Ventura Coastal manufacturing employees must be aware of CCPs in their area and how to document them appropriately. All staff must report food safety and quality problems to their immediate supervisor or the supervisor in charge during their shift.
- Monitor separator performance to ensure maximum oil recovery efficiency.
- Monitor extraction flows through spray rings and identifies plugging or flow restrictions.
- Verify the correct type and quantity of enzymes are added to emulsion tanks according to established procedures.
- Clean and sanitize equipment and work areas in accordance with sanitation and food safety requirements.
- Fill, label, and prepare oil barrels for storage or shipment.
- Operate a forklift safely and efficiently to move materials and finished products.
- Complete required daily forklift inspections and documentation.
- Assist Maintenance during equipment overhauls and seasonal maintenance activities.
- Follow all safety policies, procedures, and required personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
- Follow all food safety, GMP, and personal hygiene requirements.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- Interact professionally with coworkers, customers, vendors, and plant visitors.
- Demonstrate reliable attendance, punctuality, and a positive work attitude.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor or Group Leader.
Qualifications and Education Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Minimum one (1) year of experience in a manufacturing or food processing environment preferred.
- Basic computer skills, including the ability to operate touchscreen control systems.
- Ability to read, understand, and follow Daily Schedule Reports (DSRs), blend sheets, and operating procedures.
- Valid forklift certification or the ability to obtain certification within the required timeframe.
- Ability to understand and follow safety, food safety, and quality procedures.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to varying temperatures, moisture, noise, and moving equipment.
- Ability to work in refrigerated or freezer environments as required to inspect production lines and oil tanks.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
- Ability to climb multiple flights of stairs and ladders to access production equipment, tank platforms, and operating areas.
- Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach, kneel, and climb.
- Ability to safely operate a forklift for portions of the shift.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Approximately 80% of the workday involves walking, standing, and climbing in a production environment; approximately 20% may involve forklift operation.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
This job description is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the Company reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as the Company may deem appropriate.